In your home

Water heating

Heating cold water is very energy intensive. On this page, we discuss issues related to energy used at your hot water tank:

Temperature setting

Tank sediment

Tank insulation

Temperature setting

Turn it down. Turn your water heater down to 54°C. (1) This will save you money and keep you from burning your hands. If your heater doesn’t have a temperature gauge, hold a meat thermometer under the hot water for a reading.

Tank sediment

Drain some water from the bottom of the tank. Experts recommend draining a pint or so of water from your water heater a few times a year to reduce sediment and increase efficiency. There is a drain tap near the bottom of your hot water tank.

Be careful! This water is HOT immediately.

Tank insulation

Add insulation around your tank (and pipes). As long as you’re dealing with your water heater, you might as well add some insulation. Since the standard hot water heater is on all the time, adding extra insulation will save more energy than you think. Most hardware stores sell pre-made insulator “jackets” that can be easily wrapped around your water heater.

Experts estimate that adding insulation to your water heater and any exposed pipes can knock up to 15% off the costs of heating water. (2)

CAUTION: Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before taking this step.